Mississippi wildlife officials remind residents to avoid picking up and caring for young wildlife they may find during spring and summer. Many animals appear abandoned but are actually being cared for by their mothers.
For example, whitetail deer fawns often remain still and hidden in tall grass. This behavior is a natural defense mechanism, not a sign of illness, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
Officials emphasize that human intervention can do more harm than good. They advise the public to observe young animals from a distance and trust that their mothers are nearby.
For more information on why it is best to leave young wildlife alone, visit https://www.mdwfp.com/news/leave-young-wildlife-alone. The photos accompanying this message were taken by Steve Gulledge.
